Ride With Santa! | Gift For Ages 0 to 11 | Reservation Required
Take a 1.5-hour festive train ride with Santa himself in Middletown, Pennsylvania. Perfect for families, this holiday-themed adventure includes gifts, photos, and snacks aboard a charming railcar.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels including young children and seniors
Wildlife
History
Middletown has a deep ties to Pennsylvania’s railroading heritage dating back to the 19th century, serving as a key junction town.
Conservation
The train operators use environmentally responsible practices to maintain tracks and support local ecosystems during winter operations.
Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad
Ride With Santa! | Gift For Ages 0 to 11 | Reservation Required
Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad operates a historic 11‑mile heritage railway on the 1889 Milk & Honey Line, offering seasonal and themed excursions in central Pennsylvania.
The railroad runs narrated scenic trips where a conductor shares local history, including stories about the Union Canal, while passengers travel vintage equipment. Signature experiences include the Fall Foliage Express, Ice Cream Sundae Express, High Tea Train, Polar Bear Express (Ride With Santa!), Pumpkin Patch Express, Murder Mystery Dinner Trains, Santa's Surprise Train, and The Milk & Honey Express.
Each trip combines railway heritage with purpose-built programming: the Fall Foliage Express features autumn panoramas and narration; the Ice Cream Sundae Express offers an intimate caboose dessert experience with limited seating and required reservations; the High Tea Train delivers a 1.5‑hour gourmet tea service with scones, sandwiches, fruit, and desserts; and holiday trains bring children onboard to meet Santa, receive gifts, and take photos. Murder Mystery Dinner Trains provide a 2.5‑hour interactive dining and entertainment event with a chance to win prizes. The Pumpkin Patch Express transports riders to a pumpkin patch for seasonal family fun.
The railroad emphasizes safety, historic preservation, and guest experience. Trains run on established tracks with trained staff and scheduled departures; some specialty runs have limited seating and require advance reservations. By maintaining vintage equipment and curated onboard programs, Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad provides authentic heritage rail experiences for families, rail enthusiasts, and visitors seeking seasonal events. Tickets are available online and at the station on scheduled service days. Plan ahead.
Route Length
11 miles
Scenic round-trip route
Historic Line
Since 1889
Runs on the Milk & Honey Line
Family-Friendly
All Ages
Trips for kids and adults alike
Seasonal Events
Special Runs
Holiday and fall favorites
Reserve seats for scenic rides, holiday trains, or themed dinners — many specialty runs have limited seating and require advance reservations.
Reserve Early
Santa's Surprise Train fills up quickly—book your seats well in advance to secure your spot.
Arrive Early
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to find parking and get settled.
Dress Warmly
Even inside the train, temperatures can be cool—layer up to stay comfortable throughout the ride.
Bring a Camera
Capture the magical moments with Santa but remember to respect other guests’ space during photos.
Warm Clothing
Keeps you comfortable during the chilly winter ride.
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Camera or Smartphone
For capturing special photos with Santa and festive décor.
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Snack Bag
Though snacks are provided, bringing extra treats can be helpful for little ones.
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Small Backpack or Bag
To carry gifts, coats, and personal items easily aboard the train.
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